Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, on Wednesday, swore in 14 new permanent secretaries in the civil service of the state, urging them to revolutionise the service through the use of technology.

The ceremony came barely 24 hours after the governor inaugurated 19 commissioners and 14 special advisers as members of the state executive council in Ado-Ekiti.

Mr Oyebanji congratulated the new permanent secretaries for scaling the competitive selection process, saying it was an indication of their dedication and professionalism.

He said their screening process was in line with the merit-based policy of his administration, which had continued to bring out the best among the personnel within the state’s labour force.

“I, therefore, have confidence that you will continue to serve with utmost diligence and integrity, upholding the principles of good governance and transparency. As permanent secretary, you now hold a crucial role in the mechanism of government.

“You are aware of this administration’s priorities through the six pillars of development and your tireless effort at ensuring the success of the agenda is very important as I need to emphasise the importance of teamwork and collaboration in the discharge of your duties.

“Furthermore, I encourage you to embrace technology and digital transformation in your MDAs, in this revolving world, we must adapt to the power of technology to improve service delivery, enhance efficiency and promote transparency,” the governor said.

Earlier, in his opening remark, the head of service, Bamidele Agbede, appreciated the governor for the appointment of the new permanent secretaries and for adhering strictly to the rule of meritocracy.

He said this was aimed at repositioning and strengthening the governance institution for productivity and service delivery.

Mr Agbede implored the appointees to justify the trust the government had in their ability to lead and contribute to the progress of the state.

He said that their leadership capabilities, administrative prowess and strategic thinking would be key in driving the agenda of the administration.

Also present at the event were the Senator representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, Sen. Cyril Fasuyi; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye; secretary to the state government, Habibat Adubiaro; traditional rulers and other top government officials.

(NAN)